Here’s a race that has been dominated by European runners. Eight (8) of the thirteen (13) runnings have resulted in a non-North American bred crossing the Finish Line first. More than half of the field (i.e. 6 of 11) is foreign bred.

Horses to Watch: Though the longest price based on Morning Line odds, #1 – Star Billing ran one of her best races in her only try going this (10 furlong) distance on the firm turf at Hollywood Park. #5 – Lady of Shamrock is a perfect 3 for 3 on the Santa Anita lawn and has successfully progressed through each graded stakes level, never finishing off the board since breaking her maiden 8 races ago.

Fact: Past turf star Dynaformer is 0 for 32 as a sire in Breeders’ Cup races. This year he as four (4) offspring runners, one is Star Billing.

When Royal Delta was cross-entered in this race and the $5 million BC Classic (on Saturday), many horse racing experts had hoped she would run against the boys. C’mon folks! She’s a very nice filly, but she’s no Zenyatta, she’s beatable… even in this race.

Horse to Watch: This spring #1 – Grace Hall was considered the top 3 year old filly in the country, was the betting favorite in the KY Oaks, but finished 3rd. Then in August at Saratoga as the 1-1 favorite suffered her worse defeat finishing 31 lengths behind Questing. Something was obviously wrong that day, was put on the shelf until early October when she coasted by 5 in the Indiana Oaks.

Fact: Trainer Bill Mott has saddled the winner of the Ladies Classic four (4) times (2011, 2010, 1998, 1997), tied with D. Wayne Lukas for most. Mott sends out the Morning Line favorite Royal Delta.

GQ’s pick: #5 – Awesome Feather, #1 – Grace Hall, #6 – Royal Delta

Take a break from your normal weekend routine and enjoy a few exciting chase scenes known as The Breeders’ Cup. Good Luck!